Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy

UK Endorsement Board: Legal Costs

Baroness Bowles of Berkhamsted: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Callanan on 7 December (HL4413), what were the legal expenses to date of (1) the UK Accounting Standards Endorsement Board Limited, and (2) the UK Endorsement Board, by the name of (a) person, or (b) firm engaged; what was the cost of the advice in each case; and what were the dates of completion of tenders for the appointment of each of those engagements.

Lord Callanan: The UK Accounting Standards Endorsement Board Limited provides the operational facilities and resources to support the UK Endorsement Board’s activities. The UK Endorsement Board is an independent unincorporated association and has autonomy of decision-making in relation to the functions conferred upon it. Procurement of legal advice in undertaking those functions is a matter for the UK Endorsement Board and BEIS has no role in this process.

Accountancy: Standards

Baroness Bowles of Berkhamsted: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer byLord Callanan on 7 December (HL4416), whether they consider 17 years a reasonable timescale to produce an accounting standard.

Lord Callanan: I refer the noble Baroness to my previous response to question number HL4416, answered on 7 December 2021.

UK Endorsement Board

Baroness Bowles of Berkhamsted: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer byLord Callanan on 7 December (HL4418), for each member of the UK Endorsement Board what (1) relevant experience, or (2) training, they have had on the accounting standards in the Companies Act 2006 framework; what was the form of any such experience or training; to what level such training or experience was completed; and when such training or experience was completed.

Baroness Bowles of Berkhamsted: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer byLord Callanan on 7 December (HL4418), for each member of the UK Endorsement Board what (1) training, or (2) experience they have had on corporate finance and solvency; what was the (a) form and (b) level of such training or experience; and when such training or experience was completed.

Lord Callanan: All members of the UK Endorsement Board were appointed following an open, transparent and rigorous recruitment process. The Board is comprised of a group of experts with a wealth of experience across different sectors including preparers of accounts, investors, academics and members of accounting firms. The Board has a diverse membership with a strong interest in the quality of financial reporting in the UK that will ensure that the UK’s contributions to developments in international accounting standards are world leading. Ongoing training for Board members focuses on new developments in financial and corporate reporting.

Kids Company

Baroness Hoey: To ask Her Majesty's Government how much public money was spent by the Official Receiver on the High Court case against Kids Company.

Lord Callanan: The Official Receiver has paid the following costs in connection with the Keeping Kids Company Limited directors’ disqualification proceedings:Defendants’ legal costs pursuant to the Judgement of Mrs Justice Falk: £8,249,890;Official Receiver’s external legal costs (including solicitors’ and counsels’ fees and other disbursements): £1,274,022;Data hosting costs: £8,612.

Department of Health and Social Care

Health Services: British National (Overseas)

Lord Alton of Liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to remove any barriers to employment by the NHS of health care professionals arriving from Hong Kong under the British National (Overseas) visa scheme.

Lord Alton of Liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps the (1) Chief Medical, (2) Chief Dental, and (3) Chief Nursing, Officers are taking to identify barriers to employment by the NHS in England of health care professionals arriving from Hong Kong under the British National (Overseas) visa scheme.

Lord Kamall: The Department is working across the health and care system and other Government departments to understand the needs of British Nationals Overseas visa holders with health and care experience and share best practice on providing supported routes to employment.

Female Genital Mutilation

Lord Berkeley of Knighton: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of female genital mutilation in England.

Lord Kamall: NHS Digital’s Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Enhanced Dataset collects data on women and girls with FGM being cared for by the National Health Service in England. The latest data shows that in the period April 2020 to March 2021 there were 5,395 individual women and girls with an attendance where FGM was identified. The total number of individual women and girls with an attendance where FGM was identified has been relatively stable this year but remains reduced in comparison to total attendances and individuals recorded for the previous year.

Coronavirus: Vaccination

Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth: To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with (1) governments in Europe, and (2) governments in other countries, regarding the compatibility of COVID-19 vaccination records for the purposes of travel.

Lord Kamall: We have engaged with Governments in countries where certification has been introduced to determine the compatibility with the United Kingdom’s COVID 19 vaccination records and entry requirements. In addition, following discussions with the European Union, the UK’s certification solution has now been linked with the EU Digital COVID Certificate.

Travel Restrictions: Coronavirus

Lord Oates: To ask Her Majesty's Government when they intend to review the COVID-19 travel red list; and what factors they will take into account when conducting that review.

Lord Kamall: Decisions on COVID-19 travel red list assignment are taken by Ministers. They are informed by evidence, including a UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) risk assessment, alongside wider public health factors. The UKHSA risk assessments cover a range of information and take place every three weeks. The last UKHSA risk assessment of countries was carried out on 13 December 2021, with the next assessment made before 3 January 2022.Risk assessments take into account the assessment of sequencing capability of countries, available surveillance, epidemiology in country, recent genome sequencing data, evidence of in-country community transmission of COVID-19 variants, evidence of exportation of new variants to the United Kingdom or other countries and travel connectivity with the UK and other countries.

Attorney General

Euro 2020: Prosecutions

Lord Bassam of Brighton: To ask Her Majesty's Government how many cases have been brought to court relating to charges made at England Euro 2020 matches played at Wembley.

Lord Stewart of Dirleton: No central data is kept that would identify how many cases have been brought to court specifically relating to charges made at England Euro 2020 matches. To obtain this information would require a manual review of CPS case files which would come at a disproportionate cost.

Ministry of Justice

Life Imprisonment

Lord Bradley: To ask Her Majesty's Government what wasthe minimum term served in custody for people given (1) a mandatory life sentence, (2) an automatic life sentence, and (3) a discretionary life sentence, in each of the last five years.

Lord Wolfson of Tredegar: The Ministry of Justice holds data on the minimum period served in custody for the relevant sentences covering the period requested and this can be viewed in the attached table. We are unable to provide separate data relating to those offenders who are given automatic and discretionary life sentences. The minimum period served in custody for both these groups of offenders is listed under ‘other lifers’. Equivalent data for the average (mean and median) time served for those released from Mandatory Life sentences and ‘Other life’ sentences can be found in Table A3.3 which is also attached. For those released in 2020, prisoners released from Mandatory Life sentences served 17 years on average (mean) and 15 years (median).Table (xlsx, 16.1KB)Table (xlsx, 12.6KB)

Prison Sentences

Lord Bradley: To ask Her Majesty's Government what wasthe minimum period served in custody for people given (1) extended determinate sentences, (2) an extended sentence of detention, and (3) a sentence for offenders of particular concern, in each of the last five years.

Lord Wolfson of Tredegar: No prisoners serving a sentence for offenders of particular concern were released in 2016 as the sentence was only introduced in 2015.The Ministry of Justice holds data on the minimum period served in custody for the relevant sentences covering the period requested and this can be viewed in the attached table.Table (xlsx, 17.0KB)

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

Myanmar: Sanctions

Baroness Cox: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking with (1) the government of the (a) United States, and (b) Canada, and (2) the EU, to secure Magnitsky sanctions against those responsible for human rights violations in Myanmar.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK has been at the forefront of the international sanctions response. Since 1 February, the UK has worked in partnership with the US, Canada and the EU, to impose sanctions on the junta. Immediately after the coup the UK used both the Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime and the Myanmar geographic regime to quickly impose sanctions. The UK laid new sanctions regulations in April to allow us to better target the military's interests. We have sanctioned the junta's ruling body and its military leadership; as well as key revenue streams for the military, including three State Owned Enterprises, a high profile business associate, the two largest military conglomerates, and defence entities which arm and equip the military. These sanctions send a strong political message in opposition to the coup and undermine the credibility of the junta. They also target the military's funding streams and show solidarity with the domestic boycott movement.

Religious Freedom

Baroness Jenkin of Kennington: To ask Her Majesty's Government what is the projected budget for the global summit to promote freedom of religion or belief in London on 5–6 July 2022; and how many staff are expected to work on it.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: In July 2022, the UK will host an international Ministerial conference to promote freedom of religion or belief for all. The conference will demonstrate the UK's international leadership on supporting partner countries towards freedom and openness, underpinning the Network of Liberty the UK is committed to building around the world.A conference budget will be finalised next year in line with all future programme budgets under the FCDO's business planning process for 2022 onwards. A conference team is being built and will be further boosted by additional surge staff in the summer.

Uzbekistan: Foreign Relations

Viscount Waverley: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to strengthen the relationship with the government of Uzbekistan given the unfolding humanitarian situation in Afghanistan.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK government recognises the importance of Uzbekistan's role as a partner in the international response to the crisis in Afghanistan, including in efforts to alleviate the unfolding humanitarian situation. On 16 December 2021, the Minister for Europe and Americas, Wendy Morton MP, and I [Lord Ahmad] met Uzbek Deputy Foreign Minister Gayrat Fazilov to discuss the UK-Uzbekistan bilateral relationship, including our cooperation on issues relating to Afghanistan. The Minister for the Armed Forces, James Heappey MP, and I [Lord Ahmad] also made visits to Uzbekistan in September. The UK recognises the role that Uzbekistan can play in supplying humanitarian aid to Afghanistan through their infrastructure hub in Termez and is encouraging UN agencies to use all available routes for humanitarian assistance. The UK has committed £2 million in aid to the World Food Programme and UNHCR for preparations in the region in the event of assistance being required in Central Asia.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office: Libya

Baroness Helic: To ask Her Majesty's Government what, if any, (1) finance, (2) equipment, (3) training, and (4) other support, they have provided to the Libyan (a) coast guard, (b) intelligence service, (c) other security agencies, and (d) militias, since 2015.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK does not provide any direct financial support to the Libyan Government or its agencies. The UK's priority in Libya is supporting the UN-led political process and our programmatic support and diplomatic work are mutually reinforcing. We have provided over £57 million since 2015 from the Government's Conflict, Stability and Security Fund to: support the delivery of greater security, stability and resilience; promote more inclusive political dialogue and participation; help target communities recover from and manage the impacts of the conflict; and boost inclusive economic development.

Libya: Overseas Aid

Baroness Helic: To ask Her Majesty's Government how much overseas development funding they provide to the government of Libya; and whether any such funding finances migrant detention centres.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK does not provide any direct financial support to the Libyan Government or its agencies, and we do not provide funding to detention centres. We support the UN's call for detention centres across Libya to be closed.

Myanmar: Rohingya

Baroness Cox: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the international community, specifically the UN Security Council, to secure justice for the Rohingyas subjected to human rights violations in Myanmar.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The coup has exacerbated the situation for the Rohingya who remain in Rakhine state, increasing the risk of further atrocities. We are monitoring political and security developments closely, to ensure continued access to and protection of the Rohingya and other vulnerable and conflict-affected groups. In Rakhine state the UK has provided over £44m to all communities since 2017, including over £25m for the Rohingya for support such as nutrition and health.The UK secured UN Security Council Press Statements on 11 March and 10 November 2021, that expressed concern over the coup's impact on the Rohingya people and the prospect of voluntary, safe and dignified return to Myanmar. I [Lord Ahmad], also raised these issues with Bangladesh State Minister Shahriah Alam on 18th February.

Chen Quanguo

Lord Alton of Liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to initiate an investigation intoChen Quanguo, an official of the government of China, under the Global Human Rights Sanctions Regulations 2020.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: In March, the UK took coordinated action alongside 29 countries to impose global human rights sanctions on senior officials and an organisation responsible for the egregious human rights violations taking place in Xinjiang. This sent the clearest possible signal of the international community's serious concern and our collective willingness to act. The FCDO keeps all evidence and potential listings under close review, and it is not appropriate to speculate on who may be designated in the future, as to do so could reduce the impact of the designations.

Libya: Undocumented Migrants

Baroness Helic: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports of abuse, particularly sexual violence, of migrants detained in Libya.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK is appalled by abuses of migrants and refugees in Libya and the inhumane conditions in detention centres. We continue to urge the interim Government of National Unity to take steps to end the exploitation and abuse of migrants and to implement a better functioning system that respects human rights. We support the UN's call for detention centres across Libya to be closed, and call on all parties to engage with the UN and the humanitarian community so that all migrants and refugees can be evacuated safely in accordance with international human rights law. We have consistently called for all sexual and gender based violence to end, including through UN Security Council Resolutions and at the UN Human Rights Council and reinforced this in our engagement with the Government of National Unity.

Philippines: Human Rights

Lord Hylton: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made, if any, to the government of the Philippines since June following reports by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights that 208 human rights supporters and 6,000 individuals suspected of involvement in drug crime have been killed without fair trial; and what was the result of their representations.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK remains concerned about reports of human rights abuses in the Philippines, particularly the conduct of the "war on drugs" campaign and the treatment of some human and land rights defenders and journalists.The Minister for Asia visited the Philippines from 7 to 10 October, where she raised our human rights concerns and discussed the Philippines' cooperation with the UN on a human rights joint programme with the Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Teodoro Locsin.

Myanmar: Sexual Offences

Baroness Cox: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to prevent sexual violence being used as a weapon of war against the Rohingya population, and others, in Myanmar; and what steps they are taking to help the victims of this crime.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK is integrating survivor centred activities across its portfolio. Under our humanitarian programmes, partners are seeking to prevent all forms of gender based violence, including for the Rohingya. As part of this, the UK provides funding to organisations both in central and northern Rakhine for protection monitoring. Our partners are tracking human rights violations and atrocity risks, including conflict related sexual violence, enabling humanitarian actors to better respond to gendered protection needs. UK health programmes integrate gender-based violence prevention activities into health services, and provide psychosocial support to survivors. We have also funded the development of important minimum standards for remote case management for gender-based violence survivors.The UK is building strong and inclusive women's movements nationwide, recognising that this is an evidence-based approach to preventing gender-based violence.

Japan: Embassies

Lord Goodlad: To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have for the future of the British Embassy in Tokyo.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: As part of our worldwide programme to modernise our diplomatic estate, we are planning significant re-investment in our Tokyo compound. This will ensure our Embassy office is modern and sustainable, and fit for purpose for supporting the enduring and strong partnership between the UK and Japan.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office: Staff

The Marquess of Lothian: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to reports from 11 December, what plans they have to reduce staff numbers at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office by 20 per cent by 2025; and what assessment, if any, they have made of the implications of such a plan for the UK’s international reputation.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: Work is ongoing on the FCDO's Strategic Workforce Plan, which will define the longer-term workforce size, skills and expertise that the department will require for the next three years, out to 2025. At this stage no decisions have been made.The department's focus on strategic workforce planning will ensure that we have the right capabilities to deliver on our international priorities as set out in the Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy and the forthcoming International Development Strategy.

Middle East: Peace Negotiations

Baroness Altmann: To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with (1) the government of Israel, and (2) Palestinian representatives, about the Middle East peace process.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK remains committed to making progress towards a two-state solution. The Foreign Secretary discussed the Middle East Peace Process with Israeli FM Lapid on 29 November and Minister Cleverly raised with Deputy FM Roll on 9 November. Minister Cleverly met with Israeli Minister Frej and Palestinian Prime Minister Shtayyeh on 17 November in Oslo at the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee.

Israel: Palestinians

Baroness Sheehan: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel concerning the targeting of Palestinian medics by Israeli border police.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK has repeatedly made clear to Israel our longstanding concerns about the manner in which the Israel Defence Forces police non-violent protests and the border areas. We also regularly raise the importance of the Israeli security force's adherence to the principles of necessity and proportionality when defending its legitimate security interest. We continue to stress the importance of the Israeli security forces providing appropriate protection to the Palestinian civilian population, which includes Palestinian medics attempting to provide services.

Libya: Undocumented Migrants

Lord Hylton: To ask Her Majesty's Government (1) what assessment they have made of reports that Frontex has worked with the Libyan authorities to secure the return of migrants from outside of Libya’s territorial waters and that this has led to deprivations of human rights for migrants, and (2) what plans they have, if any, to make representations to the EU Commission regarding this action.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: We call on all parties to engage with the UN and the humanitarian community so that all migrants and refugees can be evacuated safely in accordance with international human rights law.

Middle East: Peace Negotiations

Baroness Altmann: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking, if any, (1) to strengthen the Abraham Accords, and (2) to expand those accords to additional nations.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The United Kingdom (UK) warmly welcomed the normalisation agreements between Israel, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Sudan. These were historic steps which see the normalisation of relations between friends of the UK.Restoring cooperation is an important and constructive step towards peace, and shows both sides are willing to put the needs and security of both Israelis and Palestinians first. We need to build on this momentum through further dialogue and compromise to move towards a two state solution and a lasting solution to the conflict. The United Kingdom will continue to work towards a more peaceful and prosperous future for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

Nepal: Coronavirus

Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton: To ask Her Majesty's Government what criteria they used when deciding to donate 131,000 doses of Astra-Zeneca COVID-19 vaccine bilaterally to the government of Nepal; and what were the reasons for those criteria.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK is a leading donor to COVAX, the multilateral mechanism set up to support international co-operation on vaccines. We are donating a smaller quantity to bilateral partners and countries. The main objective of any donation is to promote the economic development and welfare of the recipient country, though we will also seek to strengthen key relationships, in line with the Integrated Review. Decisions are taken on a case by case basis, when vaccines are available to be donated.The UK has provided £548 million to COVID, which has shipped over 610 million doses to144 participants, including 4.3 million doses to Nepal. As G7 chair the UK also secured commitment to donate 1 billion doses to the developing world by June 2022, including 100 million donated by the UK. The majority of these doses will be donated to COVAX, which remains best-placed to allocate vaccines to where they will be most effective. The UK also funds the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank whose finance has enabled the Government of Nepal to purchase vaccines. This financing together with COVAX supplies can vaccinate 70% of the population of Nepal.

Xinjiang: Uighurs

Lord Alton of Liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer byLord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 13 December (HL4447), what caused the delay in publishing the review of export controls to the Uyghur region, which was described as "urgent" by the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs on 12 January (HC Deb cols 160–62).

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: On 8 December the Secretary of State for International Trade announced a package of measures to update the UK's export control regime via a written ministerial statement to Parliament. This included an enhancement to the military end-use control that will allow HM Government to better address threats to national security, international peace and security, and human rights arising from the use of otherwise non-controlled items. The changes will also address a long-standing inconsistency within the UK's export control regime by adding China to the list of destinations subject to military end-use controls. Taken together, these changes will strengthen our ability to prevent exports that might be used directly or indirectly to facilitate human rights violations in all destinations subject to military end-use controls. It also completes the export control review announced to Parliament on 12 January 2021 by the then Foreign Secretary.Financial penalties for companies that fail to meet their obligations under the Modern Slavery Act will be introduced as soon as the Parliamentary timetable allows.

Iraq: Turkey

Baroness Greengross: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports of the use of chemical weapons in Northern Iraq by the government of Turkey.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The United Kingdom opposes the use of chemical weapons in all circumstances. We take seriously any credible evidence of the use of chemical weapons. We monitor closely allegations of chemical weapons use in northern Iraq. These remain unsubstantiated. Evidence of chemical weapons use should be provided through appropriate channels to the Technical Secretariat Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

Economic Situation: Equality

Lord Hylton: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the policies of (1) Thailand, (2) Cambodia, and (3) South Korea, towards reducing economic inequalities; and what steps they plan to take on the basis of such assessment.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK is committed to deepening and cementing our ties with Thailand, Cambodia and the Republic of Korea as part of our Indo-Pacific tilt.The Government of Thailand's focus on reducing economic inequalities is outlined in the Thailand 4.0 economic model that focuses on prosperity, security and sustainability. The UK is working with Thailand to provide technical support and partnership, and has developed programmes on health, low carbon transition, smart cities and the digital economy.The Government of Cambodia's Economic Recovery Plan 2021-2023 seeks to address economic inequalities and promote inclusive growth. The UK is working with Cambodia through the Accelerated COVID-19 Economic Support programme that looks to address economic inequalities by seeking industrial diversification. We are also addressing girls' education and women's empowerment through leadership programmes.The Korean New Deal outlines the Government of the Republic of Korea's overarching economic policies including on inequality. As part of the UK's Presidency, we invited ROK to the G7 as a Guest Country. Through the G7, we are working together to address global economic inequality, for example by supporting girls' education through funding the Global Partnership for Education, and are working to ensure a clean and resilient recovery from COVID-19 for example by offering support to COVAX.

Religious Freedom

Lord Hylton: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to uphold religious freedom in other countries; and what representations they are making to the governments of countries with restrictive blasphemy or apostasy laws which restrict that freedom.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK is committed to defending freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) for all, and promoting respect between different religious and non-religious communities. Promoting the right to FoRB is one of the UK's longstanding human rights priorities. Bilaterally, Ministers and officials regularly raise specific cases of concern, and do not shy away from challenging publically or in private those we believe are not meeting their obligations.Multilaterally, we work with the UN, OSCE, Council of Europe, G7 and other fora to promote FoRB. In May this year, we secured the inclusion of language on FoRB in the G7 communique for the first time, ensuring FoRB remains firmly on the international agenda.The Government is deeply concerned by the use of blasphemy laws as they generally limit freedom of expression and are only compatible with international human rights law in narrow circumstances. The Government regularly applies diplomatic pressure on countries that misuse blasphemy laws.

Humanitarian Aid

Lord Hylton: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure that UK humanitarian aid is accessible to all (1) religious, and (2) faith, communities, in particular while the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK works to ensure that all humanitarian assistance reaches the most in need, including those who may be vulnerable because of their religion or belief. As a core part of the UK pledge of up to £1.3 billion to respond to COVID-19, we are working to encourage state security responses that are transparent, proportionate and fair, and that respect international humanitarian law and promote human rights.We work closely with our operational partners to ensure they rigorously assess vulnerability and needs, including those linked with religious identity and membership of faith communities as part of the humanitarian response process. This is enhanced by humanitarian actors speaking directly to those impacted, including members of affected communities and Faith-Based Organisations, and by reviewing historical data, media findings and other reports.

Israel: Defence and Trade Agreements

Baroness Sheehan: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of how goods produced in the Israeli settlements should be treated in negotiations on trade and defence with the government of Israel.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK does not recognise the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including Israeli settlements, as part of Israel. Goods imported from the settlements are therefore not entitled to benefit from trade preferences under the UK-Israel Trade and Partnership Agreement. The UK also supports accurate labelling of settlement goods, so as not to mislead the consumer. There are currently no plans for legislation to ban the import of products from Israeli settlements.

China: Sanctions

Lord Alton of Liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have (1) to ban investment in the Chinese surveillance company SenseTime, and (2) to respond to the call by the government of the USA for such sanctions to be part of a broad effort to unite democracies against authoritarian states.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The Government is committed to upholding human rights, and has serious concerns regarding the Chinese State's use of technologies in ways that violate human rights. On 12 January, the Government announced a series of measures to help ensure that UK organisations are not complicit in the human rights violations occurring in Xinjiang. These measures included strengthening the Overseas Business Risk guidance on China, which advises UK businesses engaging in joint-research and development activities in the fields of surveillance, biometrics, or tracking technology that they are at heightened risk of facilitating human rights violations due to evidence that invasive surveillance is being used in Xinjiang. It also urges business to consider the risk of exposure to entities that are providing or developing surveillance technologies. The Government continues to work closely with international partners, including the US, to increase pressure on the Chinese authorities to end serious human rights violations in Xinjiang. Most recently, the Foreign Secretary discussed the situation in that region with fellow G7 Foreign and Development Ministers on 11 December.

Xinjiang: Uighurs

Lord Alton of Liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 13 December (HL4447), when they expect their review of export controls to be completed; and what plans they have to introduce the financial penalties for those in contravention of the Modern Slavery Act 2015, as announced by the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs on 12 January (HC Deb, cols 160–62).

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: On 8 December the Secretary of State for International Trade announced a package of measures to update the UK's export control regime via a written ministerial statement to Parliament. This included an enhancement to the military end-use control that will allow HM Government to better address threats to national security, international peace and security, and human rights arising from the use of otherwise non-controlled items. The changes will also address a long-standing inconsistency within the UK's export control regime by adding China to the list of destinations subject to military end-use controls. Taken together, these changes will strengthen our ability to prevent exports that might be used directly or indirectly to facilitate human rights violations in all destinations subject to military end-use controls. It also completes the export control review announced to Parliament on 12 January 2021 by the then Foreign Secretary.Financial penalties for companies that fail to meet their obligations under the Modern Slavery Act will be introduced as soon as the Parliamentary timetable allows.

South China Sea: Disputed Territories

The Marquess of Lothian: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to help Vietnam and other claimant states (1) to resolve their disputes in relation to the South China Sea, and (2) to conclude a substantive South China Sea Code of Conduct which conforms to international law.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: In the South China Sea, our commitment is to international law, in particular the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and to freedom of navigation and overflight. We take no position on sovereignty disputes and encourage all parties to settle their disputes peacefully through the existing legal mechanisms, including UNCLOS. We oppose any action which changes the situation on the ground, raises tensions or hinders the chances of peaceful settlement of the disputes.The UK is committed to engaging with South East Asian countries in support of shared prosperity and regional stability. We are working with allies to strengthen regional capacity on maritime law and security, including with South China Sea claimants, through a programme of dialogues, training, and conferences. In July 2021, the then Minister for Asia signed a new Maritime Security Partnership with Vietnam, which will enhance the UK's bilateral maritime capacity cooperation. The Foreign Secretary discussed the South China Sea and regional security with counterparts during her most recent visit to SE Asia on 6-12 November.The UK welcomes negotiations between China and ASEAN countries for an effective and substantive Code of Conduct for claimants' activities. We continue to make clear that the text should support and complement UNCLOS and reflect the legitimate interests of third countries, including the UK.  This was stated most recently in the Chair's statement on 12 December following the first meeting between G7 Foreign and Development Ministers and ASEAN member States.

Iran: Politics and Government

The Marquess of Lothian: To ask Her Majesty's Government what ministerial contact they have had with the new President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, since he was sworn into office in August.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: We are in regular contact with the Iranian Government. At ministerial level, the Foreign Secretary spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian on 22 September and 8 November, and the Minister for Middle East and North Africa spoke with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister, Bagheri Kani on 11 November. The Prime Minister wrote to President Raisi after he was elected, urging him to engage with the UK on a range of issues, including our nuclear concerns, our consular cases, human rights and Iran's role in the region. Our officials, including those in the British Embassy in Tehran, also regularly engage with Iran on a wide range of issues.

Xinjiang: Genocide

Lord Alton of Liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government what consideration they have given to the finding of theUyghur Tribunal that a genocide is underway against Uyghurs in Xinjiang; and what steps they intend to take in response.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: We have followed the Uyghur Tribunal's work closely, and will study its conclusions carefully. We welcome the Tribunal's contribution to building international awareness and understanding of the human rights violations occurring in Xinjiang. The UK has led international efforts to hold China to account at the UN, imposed sanctions on senior Chinese government officials, and announced measures to help ensure no UK organisations are complicit in these violations through their supply chains. We will continue to work with international partners to increase the pressure on China to change its behaviour.

Israel: Golan Heights

Lord Grocott: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer byLord Goldsmith of Richmond Park on 22 November (HL3795) detailing the steps they are taking regarding Russia's occupation of Crimea, what steps they are taking regarding Israel's occupation of the Golan Heights.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK position on the status of the Occupied Golan Heights is well-known and has not changed. In line with international law, and relevant Security Council resolutions, notably Resolutions 242 and 497, we do not recognise Israel's sovereignty over the territories occupied by Israel since June 1967, including the Golan Heights, and we do not consider them part of the territory of the State of Israel. Annexation of territory by force is prohibited under international law. Any declaration of a unilateral border change goes against the foundation of the rules-based international order and the UN Charter.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Peacekeeping Operations

The Earl of Dundee: To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the EU to seek an increase in the size of EUFOR's current mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina in order to achieve enough soldiers to deter secessionist forces in that country.

Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park: In November, the UK worked with partners in the United Nations Security Council to secure the EUFOR stabilisation force's mandate for a further 12 months. Although the UK no longer participates in EUFOR following our withdrawal from the European Union, we liaise closely with Commander EUFOR and his team. We also support the NATO HQ in Sarajevo including though the secondment of UK staff officers, who are building the capacity of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Armed Forces. At the NATO Foreign Minister's Meeting in Riga, the Foreign Secretary called on Allies to enhance NATO's engagement on BiH.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Peace Negotiations

The Earl of Dundee: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they intend to take to maintain peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region; and what plans they have towork with Council of Europe member states as part of their efforts.

Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park: The UK takes seriously talk of secession and other threats to undo the progress of the last twenty-six years in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). We have called on those responsible to cease this destabilising and divisive rhetoric. As a UN Security Council and Peace Implementation Council Steering Board member, the UK is committed to upholding the General Framework Agreement for Peace in BiH. The recent appointment of Sir Stuart Peach as the Prime Minister's Special Envoy to the Western Balkans is a clear indication of our commitment. The UK works closely with our partners to support BiH's territorial integrity and to maintain the peace stabilisation force (EUFOR) and the Office of the High Representative in BiH. We work closely with various multinational bodies such as the CoE, NATO, OSCE and UN. Ultimately, the authorities in BiH themselves must make necessary reforms for the good of all citizens, and we call on them to meet their obligations to those who elected them. Discussions of how to support stability in BiH took place at the NATO Foreign Ministers' meeting in Riga, which the Foreign Secretary attended, and at Lancaster House on 13 December, when the Foreign Secretary hosted Western Balkans Foreign Ministers.

France: Antisemitism

Lord Shinkwin: To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with the government of France regarding steps to counter levels of antisemitism in the UK and France.

Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park: The UK and France stand together in opposing antisemitism. The UK works with France and other partners in the UN, OSCE, G7 and Council of Europe to promote and protect freedom of religion or belief for all.

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Sewage: Waste Disposal

Baroness Jones of Whitchurch: To ask Her Majesty's Government, how they will evaluate the requirements on water companies in the Environment Act 2021 to make progressive reductions in sewage dumping.

Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park: Progressive reduction in harm means that we expect Water Companies in England to continue to take the steps necessary to reduce the harm caused by Storm Overflows, even after the next price review period. This duty will complement the 'significant' reduction required by the draft Strategic Policy Statement (SPS). We have been clear that we want to see meaningful action in this place, and will not hesitate to take further action if necessary.The Environment Act transparency measures mean the public, stakeholders' regulators and Government will be able to proactively measure the performance of water companies in achieving this duty.More information on ambition and timescales will be provided during the upcoming price review period - the Government, Ofwat and the Environment Agency all have roles to play in clarifying this detail. We expect to issue guidance to water companies early in 2022.The Environment Act also commits Government to produce a Discharge Reduction Plan by September 2022. We have been clear that this Plan is the right place to set our guiding principles to reduce harm from storm overflows - including our level of ambition and this will be consulted on in Spring 2022.

Home Office

Metropolitan Police: Stephen Port

Lord Lexden: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will place in the Library of the House a copy of the Independent Office for Police Conduct’s report on police failures in investigating the murders committed by Stephen Port in 2014 and 2015.

Baroness Williams of Trafford: The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is currently considering whether to re-open its investigation in light of the evidence provided to the Coroner during the course of the inquests into the deaths of Anthony Walgate, Gabriel Kovari, Daniel Whitworth and Jack Taylor. The IOPC will not publish the investigation report whilst consideration whether to re-open the investigation is ongoing so as not to prejudice any potential future proceedings.